13.1.14

Balmain Extatic: The Ultimate Party Fragrance?

Although the party season may be officially over for another year, we can still keep upbeat and create a little party of our very own to see us through. Balmain, the Parisian fashion house, are launching a new fragrance for women this February simply called 'Extatic'. Exclusive to Harrods when it launches in two weeks time, the fragrance was developed by perfumer Émilie Coppermann to reflect the flagship designs of the brand. The predominately oriental fragrance contains a harmonious blend of crystalline rose, nashi pear and osmanthus, as well as containing orchid, iris and jasmine. Notes including cashmere wood and Barenia leather provide a subtle nod to the material used in Balmain designs, ensuring this really is the brand 'bottled'.

Not only does the fragrance smell divine, bring together complex notes to offer a sophisticated and masculine scent and embody the brand it represents, but the bottle looks amazing too. I love the simplicity of the black and gold, with the embossed lid making the whole package feel like you're picking up a little bit of the designer. The best thing about 'Extatic' for me, is that you can comfortably wear it during the day and know it will take you through to the evening with ease; similarly, spritzing on in the evening will take you from bar to club via a cheeky cocktail or two without feeling under-dressed. There are so many fragrances launching at this time of year, but this has to be one of my favourites to date: timeless, sophisticated and with a hint of on-trend masculinity, it's all I need to keep the party going to 31st December 2014.

Extatic is available as an EDP Natural Spray priced at £65 for 90ml, £46
for 60ml and £36 for 40ml and launches into selected department stores
from February 3 2014.